The claims process is expected to open in the coming months and before the end of 2026, with eligible consumers given six months to register. Payments are expected during the first half of 2027. According to Walter Merricks, the former financial ombudsman who brought the legal action, most people now aged over 34 who shopped in supermarkets between May 1992 and June 2008 will be able to submit a claim.
Why Millions of Shoppers May Qualify for Compensation
Merricks launched the legal claim in 2016, arguing that millions of shoppers had paid higher prices because of fees imposed on Mastercard transactions between May 1992 and June 2008. The case maintained that the effect was felt by consumers more widely, rather than only by people who paid using Mastercard.
That distinction means the potential group of claimants is unusually large. According to reports, as many as 47 million consumers could qualify for compensation even if they never held a Mastercard during the period covered by the case.
Merricks said the withdrawal of the remaining legal challenges “finally opens the way for me to prepare for distribution of at least £100m to consumers”. The development follows years of legal disputes that had delayed the process of distributing compensation.
Eligibility is expected to cover most people who are now over 34 and who shopped in supermarkets during the relevant period. Merricks said this would apply “regardless of whether they ever had a Mastercard card”. The claims system itself has not yet opened. Consumers who believe they qualify will have six months to register once the process begins, with further information on how to make a claim expected before the end of the year.
How the £100 Million Fund Will Be Distributed
At least £100 million will be divided equally among people who successfully claim. Consumers are expected to receive no less than £45 each, while reports have placed the possible payment at between £45 and £70. The exact amount will depend on the claims process and is expected to be confirmed early next year. According to reports, payments will be made after the six-month registration period has ended, placing distribution in the first half of 2027.
Successful claimants are expected to have more than one way of receiving the money. The compensation can be paid directly into a bank account or provided as a gift voucher sent by email. Merricks has also said that an option is being explored that would allow consumers to donate their payment to one of a small number of national charities.
Alex Neill, co-founder of Consumer Voice, welcomed the development, saying that shoppers would soon be able to claim “at least £45 in cash they’re owed”. She also urged eligible consumers to make sure they register once the process opens. For now, no claim can yet be submitted. The next step will be the formal opening of registration, followed by the six-month claims period and the eventual distribution of the settlement fund in 2027.
